WINSTED — Nine Laurel Queens and one Laurel King, along with other members of the community who have taken part in the event in days gone by, attended a small brunch reception at Noujaims Bistro on Main Street in Winsted on Sunday, June 10.

George Noujaim, Friends of Main Street and Foxtail Catering provided the meal, and Ledgebrook Spirit contributed champagne, to make it a time to remember.

A custom-made garland was created with a photo of each past queen was adorned by a custom garland, jars of mountain laurel dressed the tables, and each past queen received a small favor.

The idea to celebrate past recipients of the Laurel Queen and King title came about when some research was done on the tradition of The Laurel Festival.

It sparked interest to ask the question, “Where are they now?” Laurel Queens and Kings have gone on to great success. Some started families, while others became entrepreneurs, models, accountants, teachers, athletes, medical professionals and fitness instructors. It was also discovered that being part of the program helped them and inspired them.

Although the Laurel Commission members were unable to reach every single past queen, in an attempt to invite them all to the event, they did find many who were interested in sharing their memories.

A few queens attended along with spouses, or friends and family members. The group chatted and mingled, as photo books were shared by former Laurel Festival chairwoman Dierdre DiCara.

The 2017 King and Queen, Grace Valickis and Dylan Thomson, attended for one last time in their capes before handing over the reins to new royalty. Others who attended the brunch were Dyan Vaccari,1997; Kate Jablonsky, 2001; Andrea Tietjen, 1992; Joanne Harrington, 2016; Beth Stone, 2000; Ellen Geraghty; 1996, Betty Ellen Walter, 1981; and Kara Meager, 2003.

The brunch was followed by a ride in the Laurel Parade aboard a float made by girls from The Gilbert School Leo Club and friends.

Each past queen was given a new tiara so that she could sparkle her way down Main Street to East End Park to be seated on the Rotary Bandstand. There, the alumni were able to watch Anna King and Adrian Delacruz, crowned King and Queen for 2018.